Dan Brown: The Lost SymbolHis newest novel is full of spiritual truths, historical facts, and information about our nation's forefathers, many of whom were members of the Masons. An exciting story even if there are some gaps in logic that left me shaking my head. He's not the best writer, but he does a lot of research into his subject matter.

Patricia Panahi: God Outside the Box: A Story of Breaking FreeI enjoyed Patricia's book and related to her spiritual quest and exploration of many different paths, religions and beliefs. The daughter of a Muslim father and Catholic mother, Patricia grew up in Iran and later came to the United States, where she began her quest to find God "outside the box". From rebirthing to shamanism,Hinduism to metaphysics, I felt like I was reliving my own spiritual journey. Patricia explores many concepts and ideas in her book, such as synchronicity, reincarnation, and sacred contracts. I was never bored. In fact, I didn't want the book to end. I'm now looking forward to her next book

Deepak Chopra: The Third Jesus: The Christ We Cannot IgnoreThe Jesus that Chopra presents to us is a teacher of God consciousness and a walking example of one who lived in this state of consciousness. I most resonate with this Jesus and even those who do not see themselves as Christians will be inspired and fed by the teachings of Jesus as they are presented by Chopra.

Elizabeth Gilbert: Eat Pray LoveA delightful memoir about Gilbert's one-year sabbatical following her divorce. She seeks to find pleasure again in Italy, to find God in an ashram in India, and balance in Indonesia learning from an old medicine man. A spiritual journey (and, in the end, a love story) that is fun, humorous and wonderfully told.

Byron Katie: Loving What IsThis book gives you the key to unlocking the door that can lead to a life of inner peace and joy. If everyone in the world would read this book there would be no more war.

Charles Fillmore: Metaphysical Bible DictionaryBased on the teachings of Jesus Christ, this book provides the esoteric meanings of words, names and places. A valuable resource for all Bible students who want to delve into metaphysical interpretation of scripture.

What if you were to learn that Jesus did not come from a virgin birth—that Mary conceived him just as most of us were conceived? Would that have any affect on your faith? Would it change the way you feel about him?

There are only two references among the four gospels about a virgin birth. It is first mentioned in the book of Matthew, which was written around 80 years after the death of Jesus. As we begin reading the book of Matthew, we are presented with a very long genealogy of Jesus from King David to Joseph, the husband of Mary. This was given to substantiate that Jesus was the Hebrew messiah, born to reign on the throne of David.

However, one has to ask: Why then did the writer of Matthew feel the need to mention genealogy when he then goes on to say that Mary was a virgin and came about through no assistance from Joseph?Theologians say that the original Hebrew word used in the above passage was actually “almah” which meant a young woman—or maiden. It had to do with age rather than virginity.

The other gospel that mentions a virgin birth is Luke. The disciple Luke was Greek and the book itself reflects Greek mythology. There was heavy pagan influence at this time in the early history of Christianity. In Greek mythology, Perseus was born of the virgin Danae.In another Greek myth, Dionysius was born of the virgin Semele, impregnated by Zeus with a lightning bolt.

Because of the few instances in which the virgin birth is mentioned, many theologians believe that it may be something that was added to appeal to the gentiles that the early Christians were trying to convert at the time.

So, how do you feel about this? If Jesus did not come from a virgin birth, does it change your perception of him or your faith?

I have selected photographs that make me smile and brighten my day. I hope they will do that for you as well. Click on the photos to see an enlarged view. I invite you to visit often and see what I add to my collection.